Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints -- Doctrines; Faith; Latter Day Saint churches -- Doctrines
19. By these sayings of the Apostle we learn, that it was by obtaining
a knowledge of God, that men got the knowledge of all things which
pertain to life and godliness, and this knowledge was the effect of
faith. So that all things which pertain to life and godliness are the
effects of faith.
20. From this we may extend as far as any circumstances may require
whether on earth or in heaven, and we will find it the testimony of
all inspired men, or heavenly messengers, that all things that pertain
to life and godliness are the effects of faith and nothing else; all
learning, wisdom and prudence fail, and every thing else as a means
of salvation but faith. This is the reason that the fishermen of
Galilee could teach the world--because they sought by faith and by
faith obtained. And this is the reason that Paul counted all things
but filth and dross--what he formerly called his gain he called his
loss; yea, and he counted all things but loss for the excellency of
the knowledge of Christ Jesus the Lord. Phil 3:7,8,9 & 10. Because,
to obtain the faith by which he could enjoy the knowledge of Christ
Jesus the Lord, he had to suffer the loss of all things: this is the
reason that the Former Day Saints knew more, and understood more of
heaven, and of heavenly things than all others beside, because this
information is the effect of faith--to be obtained by no other means.
And this is the reason, that men, as soon as they lose their faith,
run into strifes, contentions, darkness, and difficulties; for the
knowledge which tends to life disappears with faith, but returns when
faith returns; for when faith comes, it brings its train of attendants
with it--apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers, gifts,
wisdom, knowledge, miracles, healings, tongues, interpretation of
tongues, &c. All these appear when faith appears on the earth, and
disappear when it disappears from the earth. For these are the effects
of faith, and always have, and always will, attend it. For where faith
is, there will the knowledge of God be also, with all things which
pertain thereto revelations, visions, and dreams, as well as every
other necessary thing, in order that the possessors of faith may be
perfected and obtain salvation; for God must change, otherwise faith
will prevail with him. And he who possesses it will, through it, obtain
all necessary knowledge and wisdom, until he shall know God, and the
Lord Jesus Christ, whom he has sent: whom to know is eternal life: Amen.
Transcriber's Note
This version of the Lectures on Faith is meant to match the relevant
portion of the 1835 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants. Scans are
available, for example, at
http://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/doctrine-and-covenants-1835/13
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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